Erling Haaland’s 20th Premier League goal of the season secured a narrow 1-0 victory for Manchester City over Tottenham, lifting them back into the top four.
The Norwegian striker capitalized on Jeremy Doku’s cross in the 12th minute, finishing from close range to give City an early advantage.
While he later found the net again in stoppage time, the effort was ruled out due to a handball call from referee Jarred Gillet.
The decision sparked debate, as it remained uncertain whether the ball had actually struck Haaland’s arm during his tussle with Kevin Danso, and VAR was unable to provide conclusive evidence to overturn the ruling.
Spurs had a golden opportunity to snatch a late equalizer, but Pape Sarr failed to convert his header in the dying seconds.
City dominated the first half and could have extended their lead before halftime. Doku was instrumental, creating a promising chance for Haaland and setting up Savinho, who squandered a golden opportunity by skying his shot over the bar.
Spurs, who made surprising selections with Heung-min Son, Dejan Kulusevski, and Djed Spence starting on the bench, showed greater urgency after the break following their introductions.
Despite the increased pressure, Pep Guardiola’s side held firm, with Ederson making a crucial low save to deny Son and preserve the clean sheet.
Tottenham made notable changes, with Son and Kulusevski dropping to the bench as James Maddison and Wilson Odobert entered the starting XI.
Djed Spence also made way for Pedro Porro at right-back. Manchester City, rebounding from their defeat to Liverpool, reintroduced a fit-again Haaland, while Matheus Nunes, Ruben Dias, and Mateo Kovacic were included in the lineup. Kevin De Bruyne returned to the squad as a substitute.
Although City’s attacking output dwindled in the second half, Haaland’s impact proved decisive, ensuring a strong response to Sunday’s loss at Anfield.
The victory sees them reclaim a Champions League qualification spot at Chelsea’s expense.
Haaland’s strike also secured his place in history, as he became only the second player—after Ruud van Nistelrooy (2001-02 to 2003-04)—to score 20 or more goals in each of his first three Premier League seasons.
Meanwhile, Tottenham’s hopes of securing a fourth consecutive league win were dashed, leaving them in 13th place.
Their attention now shifts to their Europa League last-16 clash against AZ Alkmaar next week, a tie that seemed to take priority given Ange Postecoglou’s lineup decisions.
To keep their European ambitions alive, Spurs will need to be more clinical in the final third and start matches with greater intensity.
